Unknown .38 spl weight?

[bluesclues]

Recently, someone gave me a bucket full of .38 special lead bullets. The problem is that he didn't know the weight...
After measuring the weight of numerous bullets, I came up with an average of 154 grains. But, according to my reloading books, I only have data for 150 grains or 158 grains. As you can see 154 puts me right in the middle. Which weight to go with? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

 

[Brutus]

If they are unlubed as they are now, I bet you once they are lubed they will be 158 grain....

 

[fisherking]

If it was me and I had the time....I would check the weight of all the bullets
pile 1 154gr- load as 150 gr
pile 2 155+ load as 158gr

 

[colinjw]

I would agree with weighing & perhaps even sorting the bullets.

Are they lubed ?? If they are not lubed then you might get some leading in your barrel.

If they are 154 grains I would not worry ( IMO ). Weight can vary a little depending upon the tin/lead ratio mix. I would also go with powder charges for the 158 grain as that gives you a slight safety margin.

Just be sure of the weight & the size.

 

[bluesclues]

thank you for the responses, some very good info there.

 

[sunray]

"...average of 154 grains..." An average means nothing. You'll have top separate them into like weights and load accordingly.

 

[44Bore]

For cast lead bullet loads you could use 150 or 158 grain data. you will get more consistant loads if you separate them by weight and load in batches.

44Bore

 

[Jarlath]

Makes me wonder how I should load my 164gr .358 lead Truncated Cone.

Should I use 170gr charts....

Powder usage for me is Universal and Titegroup. Anyone?

 

[bluesclues]

Thanks for the info. The bullets are already lubed. I will take the advice of measuring them and seperating them into piles of equal weights. This seems like the best way to go and safest.